King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 12:16 Mean?

2 Kings 12:16 in the King James Version says “The trespass money and sin money was not brought into the house of the LORD: it was the priests'.” — study this verse from 2 Kings chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The trespass money and sin money was not brought into the house of the LORD: it was the priests'.”

2 Kings 12:16 · KJV

Context

14

But they gave that to the workmen , and repaired therewith the house of the LORD.

15

Moreover they reckoned not with the men, into whose hand they delivered the money to be bestowed on workmen: for they dealt faithfully.

16

The trespass money and sin money was not brought into the house of the LORD: it was the priests'.

17

Then Hazael king of Syria went up, and fought against Gath, and took it: and Hazael set his face to go up to Jerusalem.

18

And Jehoash king of Judah took all the hallowed things that Jehoshaphat, and Jehoram, and Ahaziah, his fathers, kings of Judah, had dedicated, and his own hallowed things, and all the gold that was found in the treasures of the house of the LORD, and in the king's house, and sent it to Hazael king of Syria: and he went away from Jerusalem. went: Heb. went up

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The trespass money and sin money was not brought into the house of the LORD: it was the priests'.

This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 12: Religious reform and temple restoration. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. This passage occurs during the decline toward Israel's exile, demonstrating how persistent covenant unfaithfulness leads to national disaster.

The narrative demonstrates God's justice in judging covenant unfaithfulness while maintaining His ultimate purposes for redemption.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Historical Setting: 2 Kings 12 takes place during the declining years of the northern kingdom, 8th century BCE, culminating in exile in 722 BCE. The chapter's theme (Joash Repairs the Temple) reflects the historical reality of progressive political instability and external threats, particularly from Aram (Syria) and later Assyria. Archaeological evidence from this period includes royal inscriptions, administrative documents, and material culture that corroborate the biblical account while providing additional context for understanding the political and social dynamics at work.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse contribute to understanding the theological message of 2 Kings 12 regarding religious reform and temple restoration?
  2. What does this passage reveal about God's character, particularly His justice, mercy, and faithfulness to covenant promises?
  3. In what practical ways should this text shape contemporary Christian thinking about faithfulness, worship, and obedience to God?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 10 words
וְכֶ֣סֶף1 of 10

“money”

H3701

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

אָשָׁם֙2 of 10

“The trespass”

H817

guilt; by implication, a fault; also a sin-offering

וְכֶ֣סֶף3 of 10

“money”

H3701

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

חַטָּא֔וֹת4 of 10

“and sin”

H2403

an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender

לֹ֥א5 of 10
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יוּבָ֖א6 of 10

“was not brought”

H935

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

בֵּ֣ית7 of 10

“into the house”

H1004

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

יְהוָ֑ה8 of 10

“of the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

לַכֹּֽהֲנִ֖ים9 of 10

“it was the priests”

H3548

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

יִֽהְיֽוּ׃10 of 10
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Kings 12:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Kings 12:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Leviticus 7:7Leviticus 5:15-18Leviticus 4:24Leviticus 4:29Numbers 18:19Numbers 18:8-9

Test Your Knowledge

2 Kings 12 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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